Belfast Trust Recalls Patients

Belfast Trust has today recalled 2500 patients following an independent review of patient notes relating to the work of a single Consultant Neurologist Dr Michael Watt.

The action follows a review of patient notes by both the Trust and the Royal College of Physicians. The consultant is currently not treating patients.

Dr Mark Mitchelson, Medical Chair of Division said, “I fully understand this will cause significant anxiety to many patients and their families and for that we are truly sorry. Other doctors raised concerns with the Trust regarding the care and treatment provided by Dr Michael Watt to a small number of patients. As a result of our own review and a further review carried out by the Royal College of Physicians, we would like to invite a number of his patients back for a review appointment to assure them, their families, and ourselves that they are receiving the best treatment. The recall of such a large number of patients is so that we can be confident and thorough in ensuring that patients are having the best possible care. To ensure patients are seen as quickly as possible we have set up a large number of additional clinics and we intend to see all patients within the next twelve weeks. Again, we are truly sorry for the anxiety this will cause.”

Belfast Trust has today contacted every patient we would like to review and we are asking patients to contact us so that an appointment can be made for them at a time that suits them. For anyone who may be worried and is seeking further support, an advice line has been set up. The telephone number is: 0800 980 1100 and lines will be open Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm.